Detroit, Chicago and the Midwest blanketed by wildfire haze from Canada

2025-04-20 07:27:20 source: category:News

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is smothering U.S. cities like Detroit, Chicago and Pittsburgh. Air quality warnings are in effect across the Midwest as officials warn of hazardous conditions.

Here's what we're following:

  • Wildfires continue to rage across Canada, with more than 19 million acres burned so far.
  • See what areas are most impacted by the smoke.
  • Here's how to check the air quality in your area.

Chicago's air quality was the worst of anywhere in the world at one point yesterday, according to WBEZ. The Illinois city had an air quality rating of "unhealthy" as of 9 a.m. local time.

Meteorologists expect Michigan's air quality to fluctuate this week between unhealthy for sensitive groups and unhealthy for everyone, Michigan Radio reported. An official with the American Lung Association warned all residents to take precautions.

A thick haze is moving from Erie and the Great Lakes region across Pittsburgh, WESA said. A code red air quality alert issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is in effect for several counties all day Wednesday.

For more on the impact of the Canadian wildfires on air quality across the US, head over to NPR's live updates for the latest.


Newsrooms from across the NPR Network contributed to this coverage.

More:News

Recommend

Realtor group picks top 10 housing hot spots for 2025: Did your city make the list?

The end of the year means preparing for the one ahead and the National Association of Realtors is al

Missing woman's remains found in Missouri woods nearly 6 months after disappearance: Sheriff

A missing woman's remains were found in a wooded area in Missouri nearly six months after she disapp

Eminem Shares Touching Behind-the-Scenes Look at Daughter Hailie Jade's Wedding

Eminem has never been afraid to show love for his family.And that includes giving insight into his d